Jaipur’s Amber Fort

The southwest point of India’s golden triangle, even without its blockbuster sights, Jaipur is one of Rajasthan’s must-see destinations. A madcap adventure of bewildering, beautiful streets and bazaars, all exploding with every sort of life and colour, the beautiful pink city may be centuries old, but it has the energetic vigour of a high-on-caffeine teenager. It is however the extravagant main sights that captivate most. Be sure to check out the Palace of the Winds’ imposing facade of red sandstone, gazing serenely out on the chaotic hubbub around it. Even better is the Amber Fort, just outside the city. Perhaps the crowning glory of Rajput architecture, the fort is a glorious deceit: intimidatingly rough and ready from without, exploring inside is a sensuous journey through colonnaded halls of grand paintings, mirrored ceilings and intricate carvings. Once you’ve gazed at the extraordinary Sheesh Mahal, with its mosaics, stained glass and many mirrors, any other interior just seems a touch dull in comparison.